The Detroit Lions are preparing to take on the Washington Commanders in the divisional round of the NFL playoffs on Saturday, and as has been the case all campaign long, we're keeping an eye on some injuries for the Lions.
This will be the first playoff game for the Lions as a result of the team earning the top seed in the NFC. However, the team could be missing a key starter for this pivotal matchup.
Starting guard Kevin Zeitler did not practice on Wednesday due to a hamstring injury suffered in Week 18. Instead, the veteran was seen working with trainers on the side of the field. The Lions didn’t practice on Tuesday, but the team reported that Zeitler wouldn’t have practiced if they did.
Zeitler is in his first year as a Lion and has had a fantastic season. The veteran ranks fifth out of 135 qualified guards with an 86.8 overall Pro Football Focus grade. So, what will the Lions do if Zeitler can’t go? Enter Christian Mahogany.
Mahogany is a rookie who was taken by the Lions in the sixth round of the 2024 NFL Draft out of Boston College. The rookie got to start in place of Graham Glasgow in Week 16 and delivered great results.
In that game, Mahogany allowed just one pressure but didn't allow a pressure, nor did he commit a penalty. He finished with PFF grades of 70.4 in run-blocking and 82.5 in pass-blocking.
Head coach Dan Campbell has said before Mahogany's start that he’s “comfortable” with the rookie stepping in. Chances are, that's even more the case after what was an impressive starting debut against the Chicago Bears.
While Zeitler being out would no doubt be a loss, it’s comforting for the Lions to know they have a capable backup to step in. It will be interesting to see Zeitler’s status on Thursday’s report, which should drop around 4 p.m. ET.
The Lions and Commanders will kick off from Ford Field on Saturday at 8:00 p.m. ET.
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